Tag: outdoor living

2022’s most popular home design trends from Houzz report

Post author By Jekyll Chau
Post date August 2, 2022
No Comments on 2022’s most popular home design trends from Houzz report

A report based on search result data on Houzz has identified home design trends of homeowners, home design enthusiasts and home professionals in the past year. Among these trends are dedicated activity spaces, a focus on outdoor living, a rise in bathroom grooming and a deep dive into resort-style pool design. The report also shows that honouring architectural origins and smart storage solutions are more important than ever in 2022.

Dedicated activity spaces

Since the beginning of the pandemic, people have continued to make their homes the centre point for new avenues of activity and entertainment and it shows in the increased searches we’re seeing on Houzz this year for ‘home bar’ (up by 79%), ‘media room’ (up by 48%), ‘library’ (up by 46%), ‘rumpus room’ (up by 43%) and ‘studio’ (up by 43%).

Hindley & Co on Houzz. Photography by Tatjana Plitt

Outdoor living

Connecting homes to the great outdoors is a trend we’ve seen grow stronger over recent years. It appears more and more homeowners are looking to achieve the idyllic beachside lifestyle, with searches for ‘Hamptons exterior’ quadrupling and ‘coastal kitchen’ doubling in 2022 (up 331% and 116%, respectively). Making the most of alfresco settings continues with searches on Houzz for ‘greenhouse’ (doubled), ‘decks’ (also doubled) and ‘outdoor dining’ (up by 66%) surging higher over the past year. In addition, capturing the open-air Palm Springs-inspired vibe is gaining popularity and searches are up by 56%.

Making a splash

Bathrooms remain one of the most popular interior rooms to be upgraded and saw spend by homeowners increase 13% from $15,000 to $17,000 year-on-year. Specific searches for ‘bathroom mirrors’, ‘baths’, ‘wet room’ (up by 64%) and ‘ensuite’ (up by more than 38%) have jumped up on Houzz in 2022 compared to the year prior.

Santamaria Design on Houzz. Photography by Ryan Linnegar

Poolside plunge

People are searching for ways to cool off in style, and pool professionals confirm interest in swimming pool design has certainly heated up recently. Homeowners are diving deep for inspiration with the search terms ‘pool house’, ‘swimming pool’, ‘swim spa’, ‘pool cabana’ and ‘plunge pool’ surging higher on Houzz than the previous year.

Preserving charm & character

Preserving the original charm and character of a home appears to be top of mind among homeowners . Dramatic search spikes for ‘exposed brick’ (almost tripled), along with ‘balustrade’ (more than doubled), ‘Federation’ (up by 52%) and ‘industrial’ (up by 41%) show that decorative styles and architectural features, that are unique to period style homes, have become popular this year. In addition, ‘Australian native gardens,’ which are well-suited to local growing conditions, saw growth by more than 2.3 times, when compared to 2021.

Smart storage

Custom smart storage solutions are becoming increasingly important for homeowners, with more than a third enlisting the help of a cabinet or cabinetry home professional in the past year (32%). Creating a well-functioning ‘butler’s pantry’ more than quadrupled in searches on Houzz in the first quarter of 2022, compared with the same period in 2021 (up 311%). Home organisation is increasingly prioritised with higher searches on Houzz for ‘garage storage’ (up by 90%), ‘built-in wardrobe’ (up by 77%), ‘mudroom’ (up by 64%) and ‘walk-in wardrobe’ (up by 58%).

Read the full report here

The Best of Houzz 2022: Australia’s most popular architecture and design

Every year, Houzz.com.au announces its annual people’s choice awards where the Houzz community highlights the renovation and design professionals with…

Tags bathroom, houzz, outdoor living, pool, report, storage, trends

Decorating 101 DIY Expert Tips Outdoor & Exteriors Reno Trends

Former winner of The Block shares this year’s outdoor trends

Post author By Caoimhe Hanrahan-Lawrence
Post date May 27, 2021
No Comments on Former winner of The Block shares this year’s outdoor trends

Now, more than ever, outdoor living is in! While homeowners have invested increasing amounts of time and money into their yards in recent years, 2020 saw interest in outdoor living spike to unprecedented levels. As a result, the outdoor living design trends for 2021 have never been more inventive.

“The COVID-19 pandemic has prioritised how we view and use our homes,” said Shannon Vos, interior design consultant and winner of The Block with his brother Simon in 2014. “With people spending more time at home last year, we all started to realise how outdoor space is so important. It’s where we start our days with a morning cup of coffee, where we enjoy some much-needed fresh air over an al fresco lunch break, where we relish a change of scenery after a day of screen fatigue, and where we can visit safely with friends and family.”

Each year, Trex, a leading manufacturer of wood-alternative decking, captures input from consumers and industry insiders alike to compile its annual outdoor living forecast. For 2021, Trex and Shannon Vos have identified four trends expected to shape the outdoor living landscape.

Outdoor offices

Among the top trends predicted for the coming year is the emergence of outdoor workspaces. With flexible working arrangements, including working from home and remote learning expected to continue in 2021, contractors report increased interest in outdoor spaces that can comfortably and functionally accommodate professionals and students. Requests for stylish sheds and backyard living spaces are on the rise.

Pergolas, too, are in high demand due to their versatility and affordability. A relatively easy addition to any deck or yard, a pergola creates the look and feel of an outdoor room while adding a distinct architectural element. Of course, its main purpose is providing shade – essential for enhancing visibility of laptop screens and devices, as well as offering cool relief on hot days.

Taking the plunge into pools

Another trend driven by the pandemic has been the dramatic increase in residential pools, spas and water features. With international travel off the cards and interstate travel uncertain, homeowners across the country are taking the plunge and installing swimming pools and spas in their backyards.

“This year, we completed the renovation of our outdoor space, including an artist wrapped pool for the kids to play in,” says Shannon. She used wood composite decking, a low-maintenance option that won’t rot, warp, stain or fade.

Luxury Staycation

Fueled by the drastic decline in domestic and international travel over the past year, homeowner interest in replicating the sophisticated style and comforts of a luxury hotel or resort in their homes has continued to grow. From plush towels and perfectly plumped pillows to outdoor accents like fire pits, water features and industrial railing, commercially inspired designs can give any home environment the essence of an extravagant staycation.

“Homeowners are finding inspiration in commercial settings like upscale hotels and restaurants,” Rod Schiefelbein, Trex Australia market manager comments. He suggests customising your railing, such as with cocktail railing, that provides space to rest drinks and plates.

Give it a try with DIY

The DIY category exploded in 2020, encouraging homeowners to roll up their sleeves and tackle even the most challenging projects – a trend development experts expect to continue in 2021. Industry analysts are predicting DIY home projects and repairs will shift from a trend to long-term habit, with ambitious DIYers turning to YouTube and home improvement sites for inspiration, motivation and tips. DIY saves time and money, while also earning serious bragging rights.

“If you can use a hammer and a saw, you can upgrade your backyard,” encourages Shannon. “Building or resurfacing a deck with Trex is a doable DIY project that can be completed over the course of a weekend or two with just a little know-how and the help of a few friends.”

For more information.

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Tags outdoor living, outdoor space, outdoors, outside office, pools, the block, the block glasshouse, trends

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Slim Aarons inspires chic new Aussie inflatable pools

Post author By Amy Collins-Walker
Post date January 22, 2021
No Comments on Slim Aarons inspires chic new Aussie inflatable pools

Designed by Melbourne furniture label Barnaby Lane and inspired by the city’s seemingly never ending COVID-19 lockdown, the Pool Buoy range of inflatable pools are as chic as they are practical. “With a young family myself, I have constantly invested, and found fun, in the kiddie alternatives over summer – inflatable pools, slip and slides, the simple garden hose or sprinkler,” says Pool Buoy founder Rae Maxwell who designed the range to fill an obvious gap in the market for Insta-worthy inflatable pools.

“I wondered why there weren’t any stylish inflatable pools on the market and once you add in a case of COVID house fever (that’s not a real thing!), you have a creative melting pot for someone that needs an outlet,” says Rae.

Inspired by Slim Aarons’ iconic 1960’s poolside scenes, the designs are fresh and fun – there’s a burnt orange and flamingo pink iteration as well as two gorgeous terrazzo designs, a wavy geometric one and a plain peach grid-like one for the minimalists.

Pool Buoy — The Italian inspired ‘Luigui Lovegood’ design

“I’m a huge fan of mid-century design and when thinking about the designs and colours my mind automatically went to Slim Aarons Poolside – a 1960’s vibe. Such a cool era. That really drove the brand name, copy and designs. They are bright, colourful, cheeky and celebrate the days of socialising poolside,” says Rae.

Made from non-toxic, heavyweight vinyl that is BPA, phthalate and lead-free, the pools are reasonably priced at $149. They also come with complementary repair kits, a handy storage bag and you can purchase a pump accessory for super easy inflation.

Perfect for apartment dwellers and non-pool owners, they are a super fun and highly photogenic summer accessory too. “These pools mean you have no need for public pools, or for sucking up to those annoying and smug mates that have their own in-ground alternative, or wrestling with sun umbrellas at the beach. Blow it up, invite some mates, sip a cocktail and hey presto it’s the summer vacay in your backyard!”

The gorgeous ‘Call me Jackie’ pink terrazzo design

Shop online

Kip & Co. Spring Summer 2020 range inspired by vacationing at home!

While Kip & Co.’s latest Spring/Summer collection ‘Vacay’ was designed last summer, its inspiration has since proved rather prescient. In an eery twist, it was centred around the idea of…

Tags Barnaby Lane, melbourne, outdoor, outdoor entertaining, outdoor living, pool, pool buoy, Summer

Before & Afters Design Furniture Homewares Outdoor & Exteriors Real Renos Shopping

Amazing backyard transformation for under $1,200

Post author By Skye Viviers
Post date December 2, 2020
6 Comments on Amazing backyard transformation for under $1,200

Interior designer Katy Thomas is one of the many Australians who has shifted her focus to revamping her existing space, and creating an oasis in her backyard this summer. She also managed to do so on a tiny budget, spending under $1,200 and all at Bunnings!

Reflecting on the original space, she says: “This part of our backyard was so overgrown. We had so much bamboo, old pavers, and it was a space we didn’t use.”

Katy says that it was very important for this outdoor space to connect with the rest of her home, so she utilised lots of white and natural timbers, in order to extend her interior design style, and create a feeling of relaxed sophistication.

It was also important, on such a small budget, to cleverly incorporate the existing features of the space. “We have so much bamboo,” says Katy, “So the plan was to neaten it up by creating a white screen fence which really helps to frame this corner of the garden. I love how the bamboo provides some greenery behind the fence!”

This makeover has also completely altered the way in which Katy uses this space, and now, she says, is the perfect time of year to enjoy it. “I’m so excited for Christmas out here!” she adds.

“The biggest transformation to this space is definitely the white screen fence,” continues Katy. “The most affordable way to achieve this look was to use fence palings from Bunnings which cost $1.40 each. Once painted white they look amazing. The new round pavers have also helped to finish off this space.”

Katy utilised the space carefully, creating different zones using furniture. She acknowledges the importance of planning, and suggests that prospective renovators create a wish list online, so that they know the costs upfront.

She also recommends that to gather inspiration and cultivate a cohesive look, creating a moodboard is a game-changer. “I moodboard every project which makes the process so much easier. I often visualise the beautiful end result I want, then work backwards researching all the elements I’d need to achieve this look within my budget.”

Of course, you don’t have to completely overhaul your backyard in order to rejuvenate it for the summer. “A small change can make a big difference,” says Katy. “For example, a coat of fresh, white paint is an easy and inexpensive way to brighten and refresh a space.”

Thinking outside the box can also be helpful, for achieving the look you want within your budget. In Katy’s yard, she used round pavers for something a little different against the white stones.

GET THE LOOK

Home Bazaar resort chair | Northcote Pottery terracotta coin pot

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Tags bunnings, Bunnings Australia, outdoor furniture, outdoor living, outdoor space

Expert Tips Furniture Interviews Outdoor & Exteriors

Outdoor rooms: Neale Whitaker explains how to create a backyard oasis

Post author By Amy Collins-Walker
Post date September 25, 2020
1 Comment on Outdoor rooms: Neale Whitaker explains how to create a backyard oasis

Neale Whitaker on the King Living Zaza outdoor sofa

“It’s not a new phenomenon, but Australians really did pioneer the outdoor room,” says The Block judge and Love It or List It host Neale Whitaker. He puts it down to our lifestyle and fabulous weather. And with the open-plan interior trend having dominated for over a decade now, it’s natural that it would would eventually extend to the outdoors.

“In recent years, people have become aware of how an outdoor room can enhance their lifestyle while adding value to a home,” says Neale, who sees the backyard (or even deck) as no longer just home to a BBQ and a couple of sun loungers, but a legitimate additional ‘room’ all of its own.

“I used to live in an apartment in Sydney’s Alexandria and the deck was almost the same size as the indoor part of the home,” says Neale who, through clever design, was able to use the space for much of the year. “I designed the deck just as I had the indoors. I put a sofa out there, coffee table and art on the wall,” says Neale who found it was a wonderful way to increase the footprint of the home.

But ensuring a seamless result, from the inside of a home to the outdoors, hasn’t always been easy; in large part due to a lack of available outdoor products. For example, once upon a time, if you favoured a Scandi aesthetic there was no way that look could continue through to your home’s outdoor area, but now it can.

This King Living Zaza outdoor sofa would look just as at home indoors — This gorgeous King Living Zaza outdoor sofa (upholstered in Oceania fabric) would look just as at home indoors

“Outdoor furniture was once pretty generic. It all felt the same. There was a lot of that woven plastic furniture from the Philippines which didn’t wear very well,” says Neale, who is an ambassador for King Living. He explains that not only are outdoor furniture designs better than ever, but the outdoor fabric technologies are too. “Given that amazing strides have been made on this front, you can now replicate the style you have inside, on the outside too.”

So with summer on our doorstep, what are Neale’s top tips for creating a fabulous outdoor room?

Assess the space

First up you need to really look at the space; what are its dimensions and what sort of light and shade do you have? “An outdoor room is a wonderful idea but if you have no sun protection you will need to think about how you can live in the space,” says Neale, who suggests installing a sail cloth as a great initial step.

King Living Quay dining table and chairs

How do you live?

Next up, you need to think about how you are going to live in the space. “I would give the same advice to someone renovating their kitchen or bathroom. You should think about what you really need and don’t overspend on unnecessary items,” says Neale who cites the outdoor BBQ as a great example of an often-underutilised item. “Depending on how close your kitchen is, you may not need to invest in an elaborate and expensive BBQ,” says Neale.

King Living King Cove lounge and side table

Furniture and accessories

“Stop thinking of the backyard as a backyard and think of it as a logical extension of a living space and apply the same rules to create it. Think of it as a room without walls,” says Neale who believes that getting the furniture right is fundamental.

“Obviously everyone has to work to a budget but if you can, I think it’s worth investing in a quality big ticket item such as a comfortable and stylish sofa,” says Neale. Then pair it with a couple of stylish outdoor chairs, an outdoor rug, coffee table and even lamps if you’re adventurous. “If you’re going to use the space at night you do need to consider your light sources,” says Neale, who loves finishing off an outdoor space with an array of gorgeous pots and plants.

For more on King Living

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Outdoor & Exteriors

Backyard ideas: Five fab solutions for small spaces

Post author By Amy Collins-Walker
Post date December 4, 2019
No Comments on Backyard ideas: Five fab solutions for small spaces

Outdoor seating — Built-in seating makes great use of a tricky corner. You could add extra storage beneath the bench seats too.

The latest figures from Commsec show that the size of an average house built in 2018/19 is 228.8 square metre; that’s a 1.3 per cent decrease on last year. Often, this steady decrease in property sizes translates into backyard and entertaining areas that are smaller which means we have to be much smarter with our outdoor choices.

Small backyard — Hanging your bike on the wall is a nifty storage solution

With outdoor living a favourite pastime for Australian families, ideas for creating small, but successful outdoor areas are in high demand. Luckily, whatever sized space you have to work with, from vertical gardens to built-in furniture and water features, there are countless ways to create an exceptional outdoor room to entertain, relax and spend time with family.

“You pay good money for land so don’t waste it! Australians love the outdoors but are finding it increasingly difficult to achieve the right balance between indoor-outdoor living, especially when you have less space to play with,” says DIY landscaper and Adbri Masonry ambassador, Jason Hodges who provides his top five ideas below, to maximise the potential of every inch of your backyard.

Get imaginative
To get the most out of the space you have, it’s important to use it creatively. Use all available surfaces; look for opportunities to transform walls, unused corner areas and even pillars into features.

Add vertical gardens to any unused walls or wrap columns with decorative lighting or climbers. Green walls can transform a once-dull space into an inviting environment – layering with colour and texture will add visual interest and make the space look even bigger too.

Create space with visual illusions
Like a painting, you need to start with the right canvas and the foundation is your flooring. Because it is the largest surface, it’s important to get this part right. Large format pavers work best in small spaces as they give the impression of greater space. Choose a light colour to open up the space and, for a modern and minimalist look, avoid intricate patterns.

Light pavers work best in small spaces — Light, plain pavers work best in small spaces

Smart furniture choices
In order to make the most of the area you have, choose space-savvy furnishings and clever storage solutions to form a practical outdoor space.

Firstly, when buying these pieces, embrace the small space; don’t clutter what precious area you have with massive outdoor settings. Instead, choose furniture that will suit how you will most often use the space. If that’s entertaining four people, pick a four-person setting – too often people ‘go big’ to accommodate the two or three times a year they have guests over and lose that precious space during the remainder of the year.

The other key idea for outdoor settings is looking for opportunities to create ‘built-in furniture.’ For example, a garden wall with capping stones can also serve as a seating wall.

Create stand out features
Just because you’re working with smaller spaces, it doesn’t mean you need to work with small ideas. Consider an area of the yard to create a landscaped feature such as a raised planter area, a water feature or a sculpture that draws the eye.

Another great idea for drawing attention away from the size of your space is planting a beautiful garden. This can even include planting herbs around the edge as a border and installing a small water feature amongst any plants to help distract from the limited space.

A firepit makes a fabulous small-space garden accessory — A firepit makes a fabulous small-space garden statement

Keep it simple, keep it clean
A good clean up and declutter of your garden space can give it a new lease on life. Prune or reorganise plants and get rid of anything that is out of place. Take a look at your outdoor furniture and make sure it is in scale to the rest of the yard. And finally, keep it simple – a clean and simple backyard will give the illusion of more space.

For more on Adbri Masonry | Redfern rooftop garden home with killer Sydney views

Tags Adbri masonry, backyard, expert tips, landscaping, landscaping and outdoor, outdoor, outdoor living, outdoors

Competitions House Tours Jen's reno Outdoor & Exteriors

Jen’s deck is summer ready + win my outdoor dining set

Post author By Jen Bishop
Post date September 24, 2019
6 Comments on Jen’s deck is summer ready + win my outdoor dining set

Shaynna Blaze’s tips for transforming your outdoor living room

Post author By Olivia Shead
Post date October 11, 2017
No Comments on Shaynna Blaze’s tips for transforming your outdoor living room

Taubmans exterior in Mojo by Kyal & Kara_preview

As summer approaches, outdoor living is back on the agenda. So who better to speak to than Block judge, Taubmans brand ambassador and all round design guru Shaynna Blaze?! The right use of paint and colour, paired with the perfect furniture and accessories can create an entirely new outdoor space, effectively adding an extra room to your house. But how to pick the right colour? Below Shaynna unpacks four different colour palettes to suit a multitude of tastes, decorating themes and architectural styles.

Shaynna Blaze

White Heat

Taubmans Snowbank and January Dawn sit perfectly together in this beautiful white palette, creating a modern classic look with soft timber and natural accents. The contrast between the trims and walls is very subtle, giving the exterior a simple, textural feel that focuses on the setting rather than the architectural features. However, this is a palette in danger of becoming clinical if not styled right, so make use of your surrounds with large trees for a canopy, potted plants and natural timbers.

Taubmans exterior in Snowbank and January Dawn

Flaming Hot

Taubmans Stormy Shadow on the decking with Akimbo on the walls, set up a base that heroes the ‘cube’ feature in Black Flame, Taubmans 2018 Colour of the Year. The palette has strong contrasts that highlight the features of the architecture. The white showcases the doors and balcony with almost a traditional touch, allowing the Black Flame to add a contemporary focal point. When you have such strong contrasts just be careful to keep your features minimal so as not to overpower the overall look. This style is right on trend — modern minimalist is the new Hamptons!

Taubmans exterior in Akimbo, deck in Stormy Shadow and ‘cube’ in Black Flame

Fade to Grey

There are layers of grey but still so much romance in this colour scheme. This house has multiple lines and angles so having a grey tonal palette softens the impact, as long as you stick to greys that are close together tonally. For instance, don’t mix a blue grey with a green grey as this will highlight features rather than soften them. A perfect palette of greys would be Taubmans Grey Castle, Cable Ash and Grey Haze, with trims in Alpine Snow.

Taubmans outdoor living room by Corella Construction

Fifty Shades Darker

Kyal and Kara have here created a dramatic, inviting space that you want to explore. This house is all about the windows and the combination of charcoal and white highlight this feature. To pull off the look, pick one hero feature and stick with it, but don’t overdo it! Their wall is in Taubmans Mojo, but also try Viking Grey or Black Fox with trims in Snow Drop.

For more information | Painting tips

Tags design, living room, outdoor living, outdoor living room, paint, painting, renovating, shaynna blaze, the block

Outdoor & Exteriors RENO ADDICT

Turn your backyard pool into a style statement

Post author By Naomi Foxall
Post date July 28, 2017
No Comments on Turn your backyard pool into a style statement

Considering adding a pool to your property? Why not make it a focal point? With the backyard pool taking up a considerable amount of area, homeowners and renovators are always looking for ways to make their standard blue-lined pool an on-trend stand-out.

According to Beaumont Tiles design specialist Rachel Gilding, there are a range of trends emerging that can transform any pool into a stylish entertainment statement that will stand the test of time. “This winter, there are some really exciting contemporary trends to consider for your pool makeover that will make it a stand-out,” Ms Gilding says. “With summer now a distant memory and the backyard pool retired, now is a perfect time to start renovating it. “Usually people only start thinking about renovating their pool and surrounds as the weather warms up. But these projects can sometimes take a minimum of 8-12 weeks.” Get a jump on things by working out the finer details of your pool reno now so that it’ll be perfectly prepared for the warmer months.

Looking for inspiration? Ms Gilding says there are three top pool trends which are sure to set your pool apart for years to come: Global Fusion, Minimalist Contemporary and Retro Vintage.

Global Fusion

From the second half of 2017 there will be a transition from the structured Scandinavian style towards Global Fusion. This style combines the textured burnish styles of Morocco, with the forest edge of Madagascar and a functional Australian twist in a self-curated style of the well-travelled.“Think an incredible hierarchy of elements spanning handwoven cloth textures, romantic bold patterns, rich colour pallets of deep blues, crimson, and bronze, contrasted with pops of sparkle and warm ambient lights,” Ms Gilding says. “Global fusion is all about the indoors meeting the outdoors in a rich expression of exotic far-away lands and bohemian ideals.” An infinity or wet edge surrounded by tiles that radially transition into glass mosaics can create an unmissable invitation to ‘stop by’. To achieve this look Ms Gilding recommends to styling woven chairs with Moroccan blankets, and oversized green plants in breakout spaces with weathered poolside lanterns to create added layers of interest to your newly renovated space.

Whitewash

Part of the Minimalists Contemporary style, Whitewash is a pure, neutral play on our senses that instantly evokes a calm sense of self, with timeless appeal. In Australia, it may be ‘safer’ than some of the bolder trends now in vogue – though certainly (when executed correctly) is far from dull. Although the Minimalist Contemporary trend may not be new, it has evolved int he second half of 2017. “Whitewash is all about subtle asymmetrical statements within the white colour spectrum, coupled with conscious decisions to include layers of interest to create spaces that are timeless and elegant,” says Ms Gilding. “Think unalike surfaces, alabaster materials and complex textures dancing through indoor to outdoor living zones to capture attention and direct it to focal points throughout the home.” Homes styled in this theme are placed perfectly to frame your pool with seamless connection.

Retro Vintage

“Everything old is new again in this fun nod to trends of bygone decades,” Ms Gilding says. “Vintage has been building popularity since 2015 with no hint of slowing down. It is all about taking something old and giving it a modern twist and new lease on life.” Retro Vintage is the latest evolution of this and it is the perfect balance of innovative style meets mid-century ‘cool’ to create an interactive piece of art that instantly draws your guests in and ignites conversation. The key to Retro Vintage is selecting key pieces like an orb chair or patterned rug that makes your pre-existing contemporary interior pop and complement your newly renovated exterior. Pool areas are a great blank canvas to incorporate into this style, as spaces throughout the home can each be a juxtaposition to each other in a wonderful mismatch of statements.

About Beaumont Tiles: Beaumont Tiles is Australia’s biggest retailer of tiles and bathroom ware. For more info, visit www.tile.com.au

Tags outdoor, outdoor living, outdoor reno, pool

Outdoor & Exteriors RENO ADDICT

Backyard Reno on a budget

Post author By Naomi Foxall
Post date July 11, 2017
No Comments on Backyard Reno on a budget

Renovating your backyard doesn’t have to break the bank. Whether your lawn needs a refresh or a paved area is looking old and tired, there are budget-friendly ways to update the look and feel of your outdoor space with DIY and smart design choices.

According to the 2017 Adbri Masonry Great Australian Backyard Survey, more than 30 per cent of Australian homeowners are planning to improve their outdoor area within the next 12 months. Here, landscape expert and Adbri Masonry Ambassador Jason Hodges, gives some quick and easy tips for spicing up your backyard.

1. Enhance the look of the lawn

Replacing old or damaged turf is a great way to enhance the look of your backyard. Healthy turf will bring a bright, fresh appearance to your outdoor space and this simple project gives a great finishing touch. Aerate the lawn with a garden fork and remove any debris. Fertilise if required and sprinkle grass seeds over any bare spots. For a cleaner, well defined finish, separate the lawn from the garden bed using a neat edger like Adbri’s Lawn Edge – lay it either way up to suit your desired edge height.

2. Update your paved areas

Paving is the perfect way to freshen up the backyard and create a low maintenance, multi-function area that can be appreciated by the whole family and enjoyed day and night. Whether you’re looking to create a feature zone for dining or entertaining, building a garden path or completing a poolside area, pavers are a clever and effective way to make the best use of any space. For time-poor home owners looking for practical ways to bring the family together while showcasing their personal style, go with a large format paver in a lighter colour like Adbri’s Quadro® pavers, to create the illusion of increased space. If you’re looking to transform existing paved areas, try pressure cleaning. Not only is it a quick and easy way to improve its appearance, but you may also remove any oil or moss and restore the slip resistance of the surface.

3. Side yard pathway

There is a shady side to every house. These areas normally receive very little sunlight and can be prone to dampness. This can inhibit grass from growing and means that the area can turn into a mud pit every time it rains. A feature stepping stone path is not just aesthetically appealing, but it activates a generally unused space and ensures that muddy floors are a thing of the past. For an added ‘wow’ factor, lay the pavers offset in a stretcher bond pattern and fill the voids with decorative stones or greenery. Large format pavers are recommended to achieve the designer look.

Backyard need more of a professional makeover? Enter Australia’s worst backyard competition.

Adbri Masonry is giving away a premium backyard transformation designed by celebrity landscaper, Jason Hodges. Whether you long for a better space to entertain your family and friends, or are have a backyard that is old and tired and in much need of a refresh, Adbri want to hear about it. One lucky winner will receive a backyard makeover valued at $15,000.

To enter please visit: http://woobox.com/72k36g

Adbri Masonry is Australia’s leading masonry manufacturer. For more information, visit www.adbrimasonry.com.au

Tags backyard, Garden, landscaping, outdoor living, outdoor reno

Bathrooms Kitchens

Buyers purchase multiple apartments to create one large home

Post author By Amy Collins-Walker
Post date February 5, 2016
No Comments on Buyers purchase multiple apartments to create one large home

Initial purchase data from the Melbourne multi-residential project Alexa, has revealed an interesting new trend. With extra living space in mind, buyers are purchasing multiple apartments in the one development with the intention of creating one larger dwelling.

The Alexa exterior

“We don’t believe in providing ‘one-size-fits-all’ apartments. By providing a range of types in Alexa, we’ve allowed buyers to determine whether it’s a one, two or three bedroom that they’re after,” says Steven Langeveld, development director at Accord Property Group.

Expansive outdoor spaces

With one, two and three bedroom-plus-study apartments up for grabs and amenities such as multiple storage spaces, car parking and outdoor spaces, this development is a great example of thoughtful urban design.

We are swooning over those rose gold bathroom fixtures!

We’re particularly impressed by the fact that all ground floor apartments come with their own private outdoor terrace area of up to 75.3 square metres – a pretty generous size for inner-city living and ideal for pet owners.

Expansive living spaces prove apartment living needn’t be claustrophobic

We also love the imaginative exterior of the building – its organic lines and dark bronze paneling in particular. “The design was actually the reason the council granted two additional storeys to be built on top of the five storeys traditionally approved for this area,” says Steven of the building that was designed by Melbourne architectural practice ClarkHopkinsClarke.

Click here for more.

Tags apartment, apartment living, architect, bathroom, bedroom, clarkhopkinsclarke, design, interior design, interiors, kitchen, melbourne, outdoor living

Furniture Outdoor & Exteriors

Enjoy summer in style with King Living’s King Cove

Post author By Jen Bishop
Post date December 17, 2015
No Comments on Enjoy summer in style with King Living’s King Cove

6 DIY projects to spruce up your outdoor space

Post author By Olivia Shead
Post date June 4, 2015
No Comments on 6 DIY projects to spruce up your outdoor space

Before the wet weather and cold front arrives, revamp your outdoor area and ensure it’s well protected for the upcoming season. These simple DIY projects for the backyard and home entrance will be sure to give your home the spruce up it so desperately needs.

Timber screening for extra privacy

Create private spaces, add shade and disguise unsightly walls with timber screening. Install Boral Timber Australian hardwood decking vertically for a smart, simple and relatively quick makeover. Leave a gap between boards to allow sunlight and breezes to filter through, maintaining a connection to the natural environment.

Old treasures, new look

Give outdoor metal fixtures and furniture a fresh new look with Hammerite Direct to Rust Metal Paint. Whether it’s a rusting gate or neglected outdoor setting, this easy to use paint provides a strong coating for long-lasting protection with it’s anti-corrosive formulation. It is a ‘one tin’ solution, performing as a primer, undercoat and top coat all in one – saving time and money. Available in a range of colours and in a smooth or hammered finish.

Protect and rejuvenate

Ensure the timber deck and outdoor furniture are well prepped and protected for winter with Sikkens Cetol BLX-Pro finish. This quick-drying water based exterior timber finish provides good durability and flexibility. It’s microporous formula allows the timber to breathe while repelling unwanted moisture making it UV and weather resistant. Available in five stains, the transparent finish accentuates the natural character and colour of the timber.

Outdoor loungingThe King Living outdoor collections offer durable and flexible solutions for outdoor entertaining and relaxing. Constructed using marine grade materials, these designs offer superior corrosion resistance and can withstand temperature fluctuations, salt water, wind and rain. Waterproof cushion covers, vents in seating and meshed, in-built storage areas also help to release water from rain to prevent mildew. King Living offers a range of outdoor furniture that delivers uncompromising style, comfort and outdoor practicality.

Backyard sanctuary

Slimwall is a contemporary architectural fencing solution for modern outdoor environments. Featuring proven acoustic benefits, Slimwall will block urban noise four times more effectively than common fencing products, bringing a sense of quiet tranquillity to the backyard. The panels are quick and easy to install making a new fence the perfect weekend DIY project.

Create an entrance with impact

A home’s entrance area can make all the difference in creating a welcoming and memorable first impression. Add depth and texture with Boral Cultured Stone cladding. Engineered to look like traditional stone, it is cost-effective, easy to install and can be retrofitted to existing homes.

Tags boral, design, hammerite, king living, landscaping, outdoor, outdoor living, outdoor space, outdoors, reno, renovating, sikkens, slimwall

Expert Tips Outdoor & Exteriors Styling

Making the most of limited outdoor space

Post author By Guest Poster
Post date May 5, 2015
No Comments on Making the most of limited outdoor space

By Jason Hodges

Australians love the outdoors but are finding it increasingly difficult to achieve the right balance between indoor-outdoor living. No matter what size your backyard is, it’s possible to create your very own urban oasis to enjoy after a hectic day in the office and to entertain family and friends. My top tip is to take time in planning and aim to create a functional outdoor sanctuary that makes the most of your outdoor space and is the perfect getaway from the everyday.

But if you have a small outdoor space, don’t fear! You can still make a beautiful retreat and here’s how:

1) Go vertical!

Save space in the backyard by adding a funky and functional vertical garden to an unused wall. Layering by colour and texture will add visual interest and make the space look even bigger.

2) Built-in seating

A built-in seating or dining area helps give the area structure and maximises the usability of all the available space. You can achieve this via walls that double as seats or seats that double as storage under the benches.

3) Declutter

A good clean up and declutter of the backyard can give it a new lease of life. Prune or reorganise plants and get rid of anything that’s out of place. Take a look at your outdoor furniture and make sure it is in scale to the rest of the yard. Keep it simple — a clean and simple backyard will give the illusion of more space.

4) Choose the right pavers

Large format pavers work best in smaller spaces as they give the impression of space. Avoid intricate patterns and choose a neutral colour for greater impact.

5) Create zones

Zones in the backyard can create areas for eating, cooking, lounging or whatever is required. Define these zones using fencing, plants or materials such as pavers, grass or gravel to help each area stand on its own. A zoned garden will appear bigger and each area will have its own purpose.

— Jason Hodges is Australia’s well-loved celebrity landscaper, most notably seen on the Channel Seven lifestyle TV show Better Homes and Gardens. Jason is also a brand ambassador for Australia’s leading masonry manufacturer Adbri Masonry.

Tags Garden, gardening, indoor outdoor living, jason hodges, outdoor, outdoor living, small garden, urban, urban garden

Architecture Expert Tips Outdoor & Exteriors RENO ADDICT

Creating a perfect indoor-outdoor living space with Charlie Albone

Post author By Olivia Shead
Post date March 23, 2015
2 Comments on Creating a perfect indoor-outdoor living space with Charlie Albone

Creating a home with the perfect indoor-outdoor living space is high on everybody’s wish list. But turning your ideas into a reality can be tricky. It is important to remember that contrasting landscapes and architecture don’t make a seamless property, rather it is vital that the inside and outside of your property marry together to give your home a real sense of flow. Below are five ways you can achieve this.

1. Plant material

Choosing the right plant material for your garden sets the tone for the space. Formal gardens look best with hedging plants such as Buxus and Viburnum combined with classical flowering plants like Hydrangea and Anemones. Tropical gardens require plants like Gingers and Heliconias to give life to the textural greens of palms and bamboos

2. Scale and proportion

Getting the scale and proportion of your outbuildings, hard surfaces (such as paving and decks) and plant material right is vital in creating a house that sits in the garden comfortably. Look at your property’s architecture for this. If you have chunky posts in the house then repeating them in your pergolas or cabanas will make the whole space feel like it was built as one.

Indoor-outdoor-living-plan — Credit: Home Designing

3. Colour

Colour is a fantastic way to bring the inside out and vise-versa, however it’s very important to check the colours you have selected work in both light settings. Internal artificial light has a very different effect on colour than external natural light. Just as you would paint various areas of a room a colour before committing to it, you need to do the same outdoors. I have also found when trying to match an internal colour to go for double strength outside.

4. Material repetition

Material repetition is a great way to create continuity between indoor and outdoor spaces. The obvious example is to carry the internal floor material out to the verandah or deck as this lengthens the ‘road’ the eye travels upon to create a feeling of additional space. The indoor flooring can also be used in other areas of the garden, repeating the flooring around the pool area or a private reading space will drag the features of the house out into the garden. Additionally, repeating materials outside doesn’t mean you have to use them in the same treatment, for example timber species used in the flooring can be replicated in the outdoor furniture.

classic-indoor-outdoor-living-space-chaise-lounges-glass-room-divider-amusing-parquet-flooring-ideas — Credit: Nobswall

5. Positioning

When designing an outside space for your property, remember that it will be seen from the inside of the house, so position your features in prominent sight lines from the home’s windows and doors. Use the windows of the property as a picture frame for your outside features, as this will extend the eye line deep into the outer regions of the property, making it feel bigger.

For more on Charlie.

Tags charlie albone, Garden, gardening, indoor outdoor living, landscape, outdoor living, outdoors, resident expert

Appliances Homewares

Jamie Oliver launches outdoor living range for Masters

Post author By Olivia Shead
Post date October 23, 2014
No Comments on Jamie Oliver launches outdoor living range for Masters

So it turns out Jamie Oliver isn’t just a culinary guru, rather my all time favourite chef also has a design eye, with his new range of barbecues, outdoor furniture and dinnerware set to arrive in Australia next month.

Being stocked exclusively at Masters Home Improvement, the range will feature the Jamie Oliver PRO four and six-burner hooded barbeques, the Jamie Oliver fire pit outdoor setting and melamine dinnerware sets, perfect for Aussies who love outdoor entertaining.

“Cooking outside in the sunshine is one of life’s great pleasures, and what better excuse to get grilling and enjoy an al fresco feast than the gorgeous Aussie summer?” asks Jamie. “I’m excited Masters are bringing my beautiful barbecues, outdoor furniture and tableware to Aus – they make cooking up a storm as quick, easy and delicious as possible, whether it’s a speedy cook-up with friends or a big garden party for the whole family.”

The Jamie Oliver PRO barbeques are packed with practical features, including a stainless steel hood, double insulated doors, warming racks and castor wheels for easy mobility. The stylish fire pit outdoor setting includes an interchangeable charcoal grill and ice bucket recessed into the centre of the table, for grilling or chilling drinks.

The Jamie Oliver range will be available in selected Masters stores nationally from November while stocks last. For more information on the range and to locate your nearest Masters store, visit their website or call 1300 337 707.

Tags barbeques, cooking, fire pit, jamie oliver, Jamie Oliver PRO barbeques, masters, Masters Home Improvement, outdoor entertaining, outdoor living, outdoor setting

Competitions Expert Tips

Win tickets to the Build & Renovating Expo 2014

Post author By Jen Bishop
Post date May 20, 2014

Australia’s premier event for builders, renovators and owner-builders, the Build & Renovating Expo by Master Builders, is the first choice for those interested in improving the appearance, performance and energy efficiency of their home or property. We have five doubles passes to give away!

The expo is renowned for connecting trade professionals and keen renovators with hundreds of quality suppliers. The Modern Home will focus on adaptability, sustainability, efficiency and affordability. The ‘Speed Date an Expert’ area will allow visitors to have one-on-one discussions with industry experts about their project, vision or challenges.

With a large focus on outdoor living, this year’s expo encompasses landscaping, garden, alfresco living and pools. Visitors will be spoilt for choice with the expo covering bathrooms, kitchens, flooring, lighting, heating/cooling, doors and windows, energy efficiency and solar products, roofing, fencing and gates, building materials, finance and sustainability solutions.

Where: Melbourne Exhibition Centre, 1 Convention Centre Place South Wharf

When: Friday 4 (10am to 9pm), Saturday 5 (10am to 6pm) and Sunday 6 July (10am to 5pm) 2014.

Tickets: Tickets are available at the door or can be pre-purchased online. Adult – $20; student/pensioner – $15; children (under 14 years) free.

Try your luck and enter our competition below by midnight on 27 May 2014 for your chance of winning one of five double passes worth $40 each.

[gravityform id=”14″ name=”Interiors Addict Competition Entry 3″ title=”false” description=”false”]

Tags building, competition, home & building expo, master builders, melbourne, outdoor living, pools, renovating, renovator, win

Expert Tips Styling

Styling your home for summer

Post author By Guest Poster
Post date December 17, 2013
2 Comments on Styling your home for summer

Pops of cool blue tones in the furniture, accessories and furnishings bring a cool feel to the space, while a mirrored wall helps bounce light around and make the area brighter and bigger.

Today, stylist Naomi Findlay of SILK Home Staging & Styling and the International Institute of Home Staging (IIHS), shares some great tips on styling your home for the summer months.

Summer is well and truly here and we are increasingly looking for easy ways to enjoy it at home. Here are some quick tips for creating your ultimate summer-friendly environment:

Merge the outdoors and indoors

With the longer days and increased entertaining, now is the time to create indoor-outdoor living spaces.

Tags entertaining, featured, iihs, indoor outdoor, international institute of home staging, naomi findlay, outdoor living, real estate, selling houses, silk home staging and styling, staging, styling, Summer